Piaski – Wierzba – Mikolajki – Ryn – Gizycko – Sztynort – Wegorzewo – Piaski / northern circuit

Destinations / Poland / Masurian Lakes / Piaski – Wierzba – Mikolajki – Ryn – Gizycko – Sztynort – Wegorzewo – Piaski / northern circuit

• Trip duration: 7 days
• Type of cruise: there and back
• Number of locks: 0

The Great Masurian Lakes — the natural beauty of the original moraine landscape is almost legendary. In total, the Masuria Mountains are made up of nearly 3,000 mostly wide-spreading "trough" lakes. The most beautiful 25 of them are connected by picturesque canals and romantic riverbeds. The clear bodies of water play with various shades of colour, from "ultramarine" blue to emerald green. In the landscape, you may see ancient avenues and cobbled paths, perhaps encountering a crane or sea eagle, or a bison or beaver. The surrounding landscape is rather flat, with the highest hills reaching a maximum height of 300 m above sea level. You are in a protected nature reserve in an ecologically high quality environment. Fishing in these rich waters is possible with a permit.

The north of Masuria — Lake Mamry and others with a total area of 104 km are surrounded by dense forests and fertile landscape. Don't forget to visit the town of Gizycko, with its massive fortress, 19th-century swing bridge and heavy shipping traffic. As you sail further north you will pass Cormorant Island, visit the castle of the Lords of Lehndorff in Sztynort or visit the ruins of the Knights' Castle in Wegorzewo. This town lies just 20 km from the Russian border and is impressive for its arts and crafts.